Made In vs Caraway Fry Pan: Which One Belongs in Your Kitchen?

I used to think all pans were the same. But trying Made In vs Caraway fry pan changed my mind fast. I cook at home every day, so I notice what works—and what doesn’t. These two brands both have big fans, but they feel very different in real use. If you’re stuck choosing, I’ll share what I’ve learned from my own kitchen.

Made In Frying Pans

Are Made In pans good?

Yes—Made In pans are genuinely high-quality cookware pieces that combine performance and durability in a way that’s rare outside of professional kitchens. From heat control to build quality, they’re designed to make everyday cooking smoother and more efficient.
Made In Frying Pan
I used to rely on a mix of hand-me-down pans and cheap department store finds. My turning point? A burnt omelet and unevenly seared chicken breast—two dinner fails too many. That’s when I decided to try the Made In 10-inch stainless steel frying pan.

The first thing I noticed? The heat distribution. It cooked evenly, with no hot spots. I wasn’t fighting the pan anymore—everything just cooked the way it was supposed to. It didn’t feel overly fancy or intimidating either. Just solid, reliable cookware.

Are Made In pans dishwasher safe?

Yes, Made In frying pans are dishwasher safe, though handwashing is recommended to maintain their finish longer—especially for stainless clad models.

I’ll be honest, I’m not someone who loves doing dishes. When I found out the Made In pan could go in the dishwasher, it felt like a win. Still, most days I rinse and wipe it clean with a soft sponge because it releases food surprisingly well—even without any nonstick coating.

After months of use, mine still looks polished and performs just as well as day one. I was skeptical at first, but this stainless steel pan proved it could handle my messy kitchen habits.

Are Made In frying pans non-toxic?

Absolutely. Made In frying pans are crafted from non-toxic, food-safe stainless steel, free from harmful coatings like PFOA or PTFE. If you’re switching to safer cookware, this is a trustworthy choice.

That was one of the biggest reasons I made the switch. After reading about questionable chemicals in old nonstick pans, I knew I needed something better. The 5-ply stainless clad pan gave me peace of mind—it’s professional-grade, non-toxic, and made in Italy with high-quality materials.

I feel better about what I’m cooking with—and for my family, that really matters.

What I Like
Made In Fry Pan

  • Even heat control: From eggs to seared steak, the stainless steel pan gives a consistent result with no hotspots.
  • Beautiful build: It feels sturdy, with a stay-cool handle that actually stays cool.
  • Oven-safe up to 800°F: Great for going from stovetop to oven without swapping pans.
  • Works on all stovetops: I’ve used it on gas and induction; it performs beautifully on both.
  • Crafted in Italy: You can feel the craftsmanship—this isn’t just another steel skillet off a factory line.

What Could Be Better

  • Learning curve for stainless: If you’re used to a nonstick pan, there’s a bit of a learning curve with heat and oil.
  • Pricey for beginners: It’s an investment piece, but worth it if you’re serious about cooking.
  • Handle length: The long handle makes it slightly awkward in smaller sinks or ovens.

My Experience in the Kitchen

I use my Made In 10-inch stainless steel frying pan nearly every day. From scrambled eggs to pan-fried tofu to browning butter for pasta, it handles it all. I used to rotate through different pans depending on what I was cooking, but now I reach for this one 90% of the time. It heats up fast, cooks evenly, and looks sleek on my stovetop.

Whether I’m cooking a quick breakfast or prepping dinner for guests, it has become my go-to—quietly reliable and always up to the task.

Recommendation

If you’re looking for professional-level cookware that can handle real-life cooking chaos, Made In frying pans are a smart pick. They’re ideal for home cooks who want durability, safety, and performance without a lot of fuss.

However, if you’re brand new to stainless steel or on a very tight budget, you might want to explore starter options first. Once you’re ready to level up your kitchen game, this pan will be waiting.

Tips for Best Use
Made In fry pan

  • Preheat before adding food: This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
  • Use the right oil: Avocado or grapeseed oil holds up better to high heat.
  • Clean smart: A quick soak or a mix of baking soda and vinegar works wonders.
  • Don’t crank the heat: Medium is usually enough—this pan holds heat incredibly well.
  • Hand dry after washing: Keeps the shine and prevents water spots.

Caraway Fry Pan

Is the Caraway frying pan non-toxic?

Yes, the Caraway fry pan is non-toxic. It’s made without PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead, or cadmium—basically all the nasty stuff you don’t want anywhere near your food. Instead, it features a ceramic nonstick surface that’s designed to be safe for both you and the environment.
Caraway fry pan

I switched to the Caraway Mini Fry Pan a few months ago after learning about how traditional nonstick pans can leach harmful chemicals when overheated. I used to make scrambled eggs in a regular skillet, and honestly, the lingering chemical smell always worried me. With Caraway, the first thing I noticed—aside from how cute the Cream color looked on my kitchen rack—was the clean cooking experience. No weird fumes, no guilt.

Cooking with a non-toxic pan feels like a breath of fresh air, especially when you’re serving food to your kids. I like knowing that my breakfast eggs aren’t picking up anything they shouldn’t. The fact that it’s part of the Caraway ceramic cookware set gives me peace of mind when it comes to safety and quality.

Is Caraway frying pan good quality?

Yes, the Caraway frying pan is well-built and thoughtfully designed. The aluminum body heats evenly, the ceramic coating actually works without food sticking, and the stainless steel handle stays cool to the touch.
I’ve been using the 8-inch version mostly for quick breakfasts—fried eggs, sautéed mushrooms, or even warming leftovers. What impressed me the most was how evenly it heats. No hot spots. No burnt edges while the center stays raw. Plus, it feels solid but not heavy, which is perfect for one-handed flipping. Caraway nonstick cookware strikes a nice balance between performance and style. It doesn’t feel like one of those cheap non-stick pans that start peeling after a month. This actually feels premium, without being showy. The smooth surface glides like butter—even with little to no oil.

Is Caraway PFOA and PTFE free?

Absolutely. The Caraway fry pan is 100% free of PFOA and PTFE. That’s a major selling point if you’re looking for clean, safe cookware. It’s also free of other chemicals commonly found in synthetic nonstick coatings, like PFAS. Before switching, I Googled “Is Caraway PFOA and PTFE free?” more times than I’d like to admit. I wanted to be sure it wasn’t greenwashing. But once I got it and started using it, I could actually feel the difference. No chipping, no weird smell, and everything slid right off. Even my stubborn cheesy omelet! Knowing it’s PFOA and PTFE free makes me feel like I’m not just cooking smarter—I’m also cooking cleaner. It gives you confidence that you’re using one of the best non stick cookware options that won’t compromise your health.

What I Like
Caraway Fry Pan

  • Non-stick surface actually works: I can cook eggs without oil and they still slide right off.
  • Safe and non-toxic: Free of PFOA, PTFE, and other harmful stuff—great for family use.
  • Even heating: The aluminum base cooks everything evenly without burnt spots.
  • Sturdy yet lightweight: Easy to lift, clean, and store—even the Mini Fry Pan feels well-made.
  • Stylish design: The Cream color with stainless steel handle adds a nice touch to my kitchen.

What Could Be Better

  • Not dishwasher safe: It needs hand washing to preserve the ceramic coating—but honestly, it wipes clean so easily, it’s not a big deal.
  • Pricey for a single pan: At $90 for the 8-inch size, it’s a bit of a splurge, but worth it for non-toxic peace of mind.
  • Handle gets warm: It’s not scorching, but I do use a towel sometimes when cooking longer.

How It Helps Me in Daily Life

I use this pan every day—literally. Whether it’s a single egg in the morning, sautéing greens for lunch, or quickly heating leftovers, it fits into my routine without fuss. The ceramic nonstick surface means cleanup is quick, which I appreciate after long workdays. It’s my go-to for simple, clean meals without the mess.

Recommendation

Perfect for:

  • Singles or couples looking for a compact, easy-to-clean pan
  • Health-conscious cooks who want non-toxic cookware
  • Anyone upgrading from older non-stick pans that flake or smell weird

Who might need to research more:

  • Big families who cook in bulk—get the Caraway 10.5 or 12 inch fry pan instead
  • People on a tight budget—while it’s worth the price, there are cheaper pans out there

Tips for Best Use
Caraway fry pan

  • Use low to medium heat—this pan doesn’t need high temps to work its magic.
  • Avoid metal utensils. Stick with wood or silicone to protect the ceramic coating.
  • Clean with warm water and a soft sponge—no abrasive scrubs needed.
  • Let the pan cool before washing to keep the coating intact longer.
  • A splash of oil helps, even if it’s non-stick—makes cleanup even easier.

Made In vs. Caraway Frying Pans: Which One’s Right for You?

I’ve cooked with both the Made In stainless steel frying pan and the Caraway ceramic nonstick pan for months now. What I found was two very different experiences, both with their own charm.

Cooking Performance

Made In feels like a chef’s tool. The heat spreads out evenly, and it holds steady while I cook. My chicken browns right without burning, and steak gets that satisfying crust. But stainless steel takes practice. My first scrambled eggs stuck badly until I learned the right oil-to-heat ratio.

Caraway is the opposite. It’s super easy to use from day one. Eggs slide out like magic, even without oil. I love how it cooks small meals quickly without fuss. But it doesn’t like high heat—it’s more for gentle cooking.

Feature Made In Frying Pan Caraway Frying Pan
Heat distribution Even and powerful Even but works best on medium heat
Food release Needs technique Naturally nonstick
Best for Searing, high-heat, pro-style cooking Eggs, veggies, daily light cooking

Winner: Caraway — It’s more forgiving and user-friendly, especially if you’re not a pro.

Cleanup & Maintenance

I’ll be honest—I don’t enjoy doing dishes. That’s why I was thrilled to find out that Made In is dishwasher safe. But funny enough, I still handwash it. A gentle wipe with a sponge usually does the trick, unless I forget and burn something.

Caraway, on the other hand, must be handwashed to keep the ceramic coating safe. Luckily, it’s so nonstick that even cheesy omelets rinse off in seconds. No scrubbing, no stress.

Feature Made In Frying Pan Caraway Frying Pan
Dishwasher safe Yes (recommended handwash) No
Cleanup effort Moderate (depends on what you cook) Very easy
Long-term care Requires occasional polishing Needs gentle cleaning to avoid damage

Winner: Caraway — Fast cleanup wins for everyday use, especially when I’m tired.

Build Quality & Feel

The Made In pan feels like something you’d find in a professional kitchen. It’s solid, a little heavy, and doesn’t warp under heat. I love the long handle—it stays cool, and I trust it on both gas and induction stoves.

Caraway is lighter, which I appreciate when flipping eggs with one hand. It looks beautiful on the counter, but the handle can get warm. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I have to use a towel sometimes for longer cooks.

Feature Made In Frying Pan Caraway Frying Pan
Build quality Solid, 5-ply, pro-grade stainless steel Lightweight, smooth ceramic coating
Handle comfort Stays cool under most use Gets warm on longer cooks
Appearance Sleek and minimal Modern and colorful

Winner: Made In — Built like a tank and feels dependable for years to come.

Health & Safety

Health was a big factor for me when switching from my old pans. Made In is pure stainless steel—no coatings, no worries. I feel confident using it, even on high heat.

Caraway is where I first learned about non-toxic ceramic cookware. It’s PFOA and PTFE-free, which means no scary fumes if I forget and overheat it. I use it more when cooking for my kids—peace of mind is priceless.

Feature Made In Frying Pan Caraway Frying Pan
Non-toxic materials Yes, stainless steel Yes, ceramic nonstick, PTFE/PFOA-free
Safe for high heat Yes, up to 800°F No, best under 550°F
Ideal for High-heat cooking Family-friendly, low-to-medium heat

Winner: Caraway — It wins for non-toxic confidence in everyday meals.

Price & Value

Both pans are on the pricier side. I hesitated before buying them, but now I see the value. Made In is an investment. It’s not flashy, but it performs like cookware twice its price.

Caraway costs a bit more than you’d expect for its size, especially the 8-inch pan. But the design, safety, and ease make it feel worth it. It’s not cheap, but you do get what you pay for.

Feature Made In Frying Pan Caraway Frying Pan
Price (10″/8″ pan) ~$119 ~$90
Feel vs. cost Excellent long-term value Great for small, daily cooking
Investment level Worth it if you cook often Worth it for non-toxic convenience

Winner: Tie — Depends on your budget and what you’re cooking most.

Final Ratings

Category Made In (Score /5) Caraway (Score /5)
Cooking Performance 4.5 4.7
Cleanup & Maintenance 4.0 4.8
Build & Feel 4.7 4.3
Health & Safety 4.5 5.0
Value for Money 4.4 4.4
Overall Average 4.42 4.64

My Final Thoughts

If you like to cook and don’t mind a bit of learning, Made In might be just right. It feels strong, cooks well, and lasts a long time. But if you want simple, safe, and fast cleanup, Caraway is a joy to use. I use both, but for quick meals, I grab my Caraway. For bigger meals or when I want that pro feel, Made In wins.

 FAQs – Made In vs Caraway

Q1. Are Made In pans better than Caraway for everyday cooking?

A: Made In pans are better for high-heat and long-term use, while Caraway is easier to use daily thanks to its non-stick ceramic surface.

Q2. Is Made In cookware non-toxic like Caraway?

A: Yes, Made In cookware is non-toxic and free from PFOA or PTFE. Caraway also uses safe ceramic coating with no harmful chemicals.

Q3. Which pan is easier to clean—Made In or Caraway?

A: Caraway is easier to clean thanks to its non-stick surface. Made In pans clean well but may need soaking if food sticks.

Q4. Can Made In and Caraway pans go in the oven?

A: Yes. Made In is oven-safe up to 800°F, while Caraway is oven-safe up to 550°F, making both good for stovetop-to-oven recipes.

Q5. Which frying pan lasts longer: Caraway or Made In?

A: Made In lasts longer due to its stainless steel build. Caraway holds up well with care but may wear faster with heavy daily use.

Q6. Are Caraway and Made In pans safe for induction cooktops?

A: Yes. Both Caraway and Made In pans work well on induction, gas, and electric cooktops, offering flexible kitchen use.

Q7. Do Caraway pans chip or lose their coating over time?

A: With proper care, Caraway pans hold up well. Avoid high heat and metal tools to help the ceramic coating last longer.

Q8. Is Made In good for beginners, or should I choose Caraway?

A: Caraway is easier for beginners due to its non-stick feel. Made In needs a bit of skill but offers pro-level results.

Q9. How do Caraway and Made In handle heat distribution?

A: Both distribute heat well. Made In uses 5-ply stainless for even cooking, while Caraway’s aluminum core avoids hot spots.

Q10. Which is better for health-conscious cooks: Made In or Caraway?

A: Caraway is ideal for low-oil, toxin-free cooking. Made In is also non-toxic but needs more oil to prevent sticking.

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kris s. cary
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Kris S. Cary is the founder of KitchinPrep.com and a passionate kitchen enthusiast with over three years of experience in the culinary world. A graduate of the Culinary Management, A.S. program at Daytona State College in Daytona Beach, USA, Kris spent two years honing their skills and deepening their love for cooking and kitchen essentials. Specializing in kitchen baking tools, Kris is dedicated to sharing practical tips, insightful product reviews, and expert guides to help home cooks elevate their baking and cooking game. When not testing the latest kitchen gadgets, Kris is likely whipping up something delicious or dreaming up new ways to inspire culinary creativity.

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